How Do You Grow Blue Jade Corn?

Written by Lars Nyman on

November 4, 2024

Growing Blue Jade Corn

A great space saver with good produce and a touch of color - that’s the Blue Jade corn trademark. A true jade in any home garden - this variety of corn is not only amazing because of its color, but it is also the one sweet corn varieties that can be successfully in containers! The Blue Jade Corn (Zea may ‘Blue Jade’) belongs to the grass family but grows only 3 feet tall!

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Cheatsheet:

Planting Tips

🌱 Start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost date.

💦 Plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.

🌡️ Soil Temperature: 60-95°F (15-35°C)

🌽 Plant seeds 2-3 inches deep, 10-12 inches apart.

Growth & Maintenance

⏳ Germination: 7-14 days

🌧️ Weekly water: 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm)

🌬️ Wind tolerance: Moderate to high

🌿 Fertilize every 3-4 weeks with nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

Harvesting & Consumption

🎬 Days to maturity: 75-90 days

🌽 Harvest when kernels are juicy and brightly colored.

🌽 Enjoy fresh or cook by boiling, grilling, or roasting.

🥗 Nutritional: Rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Growing Blue Jade Corn: A Jewel in Your Garden

Every year, I find myself eagerly awaiting the chance to plant my favorite variety of corn: Blue Jade Corn. This dwarf corn is a real treasure, boasting deep blue kernels that are as stunning to look at as they are delicious to eat.

Why Choose Blue Jade Corn?

Blue Jade Corn is not just visually appealing; it’s also incredibly practical for small garden spaces. Standing at just about three feet tall, it fits perfectly in urban gardens or even patio containers. Despite its small stature, it produces lovely, sweet corn that’s perfect for summer salads or roasting on the grill.

Blue Jade Corn yields about 2-3 ears per stalk, making it a bountiful choice for its size.

Preparation and Planting

When I first started growing Blue Jade Corn, I quickly learned that soil preparation is key. This corn thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with plenty of organic matter. I like to mix compost into my garden bed a few weeks before planting to ensure a nutrient-rich environment.

Planting Tips

  • Plant seeds when the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F. Corn loves warmth!
  • Space seeds about 6 inches apart in rows at least 2 feet apart to ensure adequate sun and air circulation.

Once the seeds are in the ground, I water them thoroughly and keep the soil consistently moist. It’s crucial to be gentle during this stage to avoid disturbing the seeds.

Care and Feeding

Blue Jade Corn requires regular feeding, so I usually apply a balanced organic fertilizer when the plants reach about 12 inches in height. This gives them the nutrients they need to produce those vibrant ears of corn. During the growing season, I keep an eye out for weeds and remove them promptly to reduce competition for nutrients.

Pollination

Pollination can be a bit tricky with smaller corn varieties like Blue Jade. To ensure good pollination, I plant in blocks rather than rows. This way, the wind can effectively transfer pollen from tassels to silks. If you’re growing in a container, you might need to hand-pollinate. Simply shake the tassels over the silks to help the process along.

Harvesting

The first time I harvested Blue Jade Corn, I couldn’t believe how vibrant its ears looked. It typically takes about 70-80 days to mature. I check for ripeness when the kernels are full and milky by gently piercing a kernel with a fingernail.

Storage

After harvesting, I find the best way to enjoy Blue Jade Corn is fresh. However, you can also blanch and freeze the kernels if you have an abundant harvest. This method preserves their sweet flavor for months.

Pests and Challenges

Though Blue Jade Corn is resilient, it isn’t immune to pests. I’ve experienced attacks from corn earworms in the past. The best defense is regular inspection and using organic methods like neem oil to keep them at bay.

Growing Blue Jade Corn is a rewarding journey. Watching the azure kernels form is a sight to behold, and the taste is simply unmatched. It brings a unique beauty and flavor to the garden that I cherish every season.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long does it take for Blue Jade Corn to grow?

Blue Jade Corn typically takes 60-75 days to reach maturity from the time of planting.

2. What are the ideal growing conditions for Blue Jade Corn?

Blue Jade Corn thrives in full sun with well-drained soil and a temperature range of 70-85°F.

3. How do I prepare the soil for Growing Blue Jade Corn?

Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and well-drained. Loosen it and remove any weeds before planting.

4. How often should I water Blue Jade Corn?

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall.

5. How do I plant Blue Jade Corn seeds?

Sow seeds in rows, 12-18 inches apart, and 1-2 inches deep. Space the rows 24-30 inches apart for sufficient air circulation.

6. Do I need to fertilize Blue Jade Corn?

Yes, fertilize the plants with a balanced organic fertilizer at the time of planting and again when they reach 12 inches tall.

7. How can I protect Blue Jade Corn from pests?

Use organic pest control methods such as companion planting, physical barriers, and regularly inspecting for signs of pests.

8. When is the right time to harvest Blue Jade Corn?

Harvest Blue Jade Corn when the silks are brown and the kernels are plump and milky when pierced with a fingernail.

9. How do I store Blue Jade Corn?

After harvesting, remove the husks and store the corn in the refrigerator for up to a week.

10. Can I save seeds from Blue Jade Corn for future planting?

Absolutely! To save seeds, allow the cobs to fully dry on the plant, then remove the kernels for storage.

Overall, growing blue jade corn is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only does it add a unique appeal and sophistication to any garden, but the corn itself is a delightful snack or ingredient. With some patience and effort and some soil-specific modifications, successfully growing blue jade corn is an achievable goal for any home gardener.

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